11 hours ago
Stroud mum finds safe space in group helping others with postnatal health
A CHARITY'S support group in Stroud has been praised for helping parents with their mental health.
The Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters' Network (GBSN) runs seven free weekly groups across the county to support parents who are breastfeeding.
They offer free one-to-one support through trained peer supporters and breastfeeding counsellors.
One of these groups takes place in Stroud, which mother Danni Smith began attending after she had her second daughter.
Danni wanted help with breastfeeding and in the group found a 'safe space' where she could talk about her postnatal mental health struggles.
She said: "When I first got to the group, my baby was just a few days old and I just felt immediately safe.
"There was no judgement.
"This was a space for my whole family, my husband and toddler could come along too and feel supported."
Danni has since been inspired to become a breastfeeding counsellor and a trustee for GBSN.
She said: "Being able to now be a breastfeeding counsellor who can walk that journey with somebody else and support them through it is a huge privilege."
Now, the support offered by the network is being recognised nationally.
The charity has been shortlisted for a national mental health award by BBC Radio 4 as part of their All in the Mind awards.
This recognition underscores its contribution to providing not just breastfeeding support but also mental health support to parents.
GBSN chair Kirstie Clarke said: "We are so proud to be shortlisted for this award which recognises the dedication of a wonderful team of peer supporters, breastfeeding counsellors and volunteers who make our groups the nurturing and welcoming space that they are.
"Breastfeeding support at GBSN is not only about helping a mother with feeding her baby – our ethos is about providing a holistic approach to caring and empowering parents at all stages of their breastfeeding journeys.
"Even if it's just about giving mums a cup of tea, a slice of cake and a chance to chat with other mums."
The All in the Mind final will be held on June 18 at a ceremony in London.
For more information, visit the Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters' Network website.
